Former US Open champion at 18 could lose $9 million: ‘Her career could be over’

Emma Raducanu’s meteoric rise to tennis stardom began with her historic victory at the 2021 US Open. At just 18 years old, she became the first qualifier in history to win the tournament, doing so without dropping a set.

Her triumph catapulted her to international fame, securing lucrative sponsorship deals with brands such as Dior, Tiffany & Co., and Vodafone, which collectively amounted to $9 million.

However, Raducanu’s once-promising career now faces a turning point, as injuries and inconsistent performance have hindered her progress. Ending the 2024 season ranked No. 57, the 22-year-old is under pressure to rejuvenate both her on-court success and endorsement appeal.

Looking ahead to 2025, Raducanu is determined to reclaim her form. She plans to kick off her season in Oceania, competing in preparation for the Australian Open, and has added renowned fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura to her team. Despite her recent struggles, Raducanu’s talent and resilience remain undeniable.

As she embarks on this critical phase of her career, fans and sponsors alike are eager to see whether she can recapture the brilliance that once made her the face of tennis and secure her legacy in the sport.